The blaze happened on December 26th at Agherton Grange in the town. Residents were evacuated as six fire appliances and 32 firefighters dealt with the situation.

Emergency services, along with representatives from Alpha Housing, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and Burnside Presbyterian Church, attended the reception in the Mayor’s Parlour in Cloonavin.

Speaking afterwards, Councillor Baird OBE, said: “I would like to sincerely thank everyone who played a part in the aftermath of this fire. A potential tragedy was averted due to the swift action of those involved. Emergency services and the local community rallied together to ensure residents were brought quickly to safety, and I have no doubt their efforts helped to save lives.”